Letter to the Editor: High quality work

Last Thursday, I enjoyed watching students from the Endeavor science classes at TDWHS present high quality, thought-provoking projects. The showcase included bio-diesel produced out of discarded oil from a local restaurant, electrolysis of water with an intent to use hydrogen as fuel, studies of the environmental impact of transporting coal on trains through the gorge, research on evolutionary and ethnic bases for lactose intolerance in various parts of the world, and many, many other innovative projects.

It was very hopeful and encouraging to witness students' enthusiasm, knowledge and pride as they described their work to community members attending the show. Hats off to all participating students!

I would also like to express my appreciation for the science teachers at TDWHS who lead this project: Patrick Getchis, Kate Galt, Dezirah Gowdy and Brian Goodwin from the Education Foundation, as well as all the TDWHS staff and faculty, and community volunteers who had the courage, energy and imagination to create such an amazing learning environment for students. As an educator myself, there is nothing more pleasing than seeing young people so engaged in their learning that even the most abstract and challenging disciplines such as mathematics, physics or data analysis are being consumed with a fiery passion. The Endeavor science classes at TDWHS have helped spark that kind of passion in many of our students!